New Commercial Manager Appointed

12 November 2015

Lincolnshire-born Ritchie Bates has been appointed as the Club's new Commercial Manager.

A graduate from the University of Lincoln with a degree in Sport Development and Coaching, Ritchie joins the Imps after a spell in a similar role at Macclesfield Town having previously gained experience working with clubs such as Everton, Manchester City, Blackburn Rovers and Portsmouth.

"I would like to thank Bob Dorrian and Kevin Cooke for showing tremendous faith in me and for giving me the honour to be the Club’s Commercial Manager," says 29-year-old Ritchie. "I feel very privileged and very proud to be representing this great club, and will give 100 per cent to help it grow.

"When Kevin first approached me about the role I was very excited but had some doubts due to the fact I was happy in a role at Macclesfield Town and also that I lived in Manchester. All it took was one meeting to convince me that LCFC was the right project for me and I hope I show everyone over time that I am the correct appointment for the role.

"The other pull for me was the fact that I am from Lincolnshire. I have been living in Manchester for six years but it felt right to come back home.

"I would like to thank everybody working at LCFC this week who has made me feel right at home. Everyone has been extremely helpful with my move back to Lincolnshire and there’s a great atmosphere around the office and training pitch.

"This was evident when I met manager Chris Moyses who seems a top guy and while I’ll be doing my best for the Club off the pitch, I wish Chris and the players every success on it."

Ritchie will be assisted in his role by another recent new face in the shape of Jake Longworth.